Another unheralded talent makes a point

In just his second IPL season, Ashutosh Sharma delivered yet another reminder of the league's ability to raise the status of unheralded domestic talent.

- Samreen Razzaqui

NEW DELHI:

Having fallen short in similar situations last season -- against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians, where he scored 33 off 15 and 61 off 28 respectively -- Ashutosh went one step further this time, smashing a heroic 66 off 31 balls to help his side pull off a thrilling one-wicket heist for Delhi Capitals against Lucknow Super Giants in Vizag last night.

The 26-year-old batter was first noticed last year, courtesy of an IPL innovation -- the Impact Player rule. Punjab Kings used him three times in that role, and he quickly proved why he deserved his reputation as an explosive middle-order batter.

On Monday, he was once again subbed in as an Impact Player, replacing bowler Mukesh Sharma, with DC struggling at 65/5. Half their top order was already back in the dugout and it seemed like the result was inevitable.